vegan philly cheesesteak

This easy Vegan Philly Cheesesteak is the ultimate plant-based twist on the iconic sandwich. Loaded with savory seitan “beef,” sautéed onions, optional peppers and mushrooms, and melty vegan provolone cheese, all tucked into a toasted hoagie roll—it’s the kind of sandwich that satisfies meat-lovers and vegans alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 20 minutes

• Packed with hearty flavor and texture

• Uses a homemade seitan that mimics real beef

• Easily customizable with different veggies or store-bought substitutes

• Melted vegan cheese adds creaminess and indulgence

• A great choice for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 batch homemade seitan (or 2 lbs store-bought seitan, see variations)

• ¼ cup reduced sodium soy sauce

• 2 medium white onions, sliced into ¼-inch half moons

• 2 green bell peppers, sliced (optional)

• 16 ounces white button mushrooms (or any mushrooms, optional)

• 1 batch vegan provolone cheese (or store-bought vegan cheese of choice)

For serving:

• 6 hoagie rolls, split and toasted

• Vegan butter (for toasting the rolls)

directions

1. Start the onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the onions until translucent. Deglaze with water or oil as needed.

2. Add peppers and mushrooms: Add sliced bell peppers and mushrooms if using. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce during cooking.

3. Rest the seitan: If using homemade seitan, allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

4. Finish the veggies: Continue cooking the vegetables over medium-low heat until tender and golden. Remove from heat.

5. Prepare the vegan cheese: If making homemade cheese, cook it briefly on the stovetop until thick and stretchy. Store-bought slices or shreds can be melted directly in the pan with the veggies if desired.

6. Toast the bread: Toast the split hoagie rolls in a skillet with a little vegan butter until golden and crisp.

7. Slice the seitan: Slice the seitan into thin strips, then cut in half lengthwise for smaller bites.

8. Flavor the seitan: Add the sliced seitan to the skillet with veggies and remaining soy sauce. Stir to combine and heat through.

9. Assemble: Pile seitan and veggies onto toasted rolls, top with melted vegan cheese, then add another layer of seitan and veggies. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Yield: 6 sandwiches

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use Impossible Meat, Beyond Steak, soy curls, or tofu instead of seitan

• Make it gluten-free with soy curls and GF buns or lettuce wraps

• Add banana peppers or jalapeños for a spicy twist

• Use any store-bought vegan cheese like Chao or Daiya for convenience

• Add a splash of vegan Worcestershire, thyme, or smoked paprika for extra flavor

storage/reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftover seitan, veggies, and cheese separately in airtight containers for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Seitan can be frozen up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat fillings in a skillet until hot. Revive firmed-up cheese with a splash of plant milk over low heat. Toast fresh bread for best results.

FAQs

Can I make the seitan ahead of time?

Yes, homemade seitan can be made up to 5 days in advance or frozen for 3 months.

What if I don’t want to use seitan?

You can substitute soy curls, Impossible Meat, Beyond Steak, tofu, or chickpeas for a similar texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

With substitutions like soy curls and tamari, plus gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps, it can easily be made gluten-free.

Can I use store-bought vegan cheese?

Absolutely. Slices or shreds will work—just melt them over the filling or directly in the sandwich.

Do I have to use mushrooms and peppers?

No, they’re optional. Feel free to skip or swap with other veggies like zucchini or spinach.

How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy?

Only assemble sandwiches when ready to serve. Store components separately if prepping ahead.

Can I add extra toppings?

Sure—try vegan mayo, mustard, hot sauce, or sautéed jalapeños for more flavor.

What kind of bread works best?

Soft hoagie rolls are traditional, but any sandwich roll or baguette will do. Toasting helps hold everything together.

How can I make the vegan cheese more flavorful?

For homemade cheese, boost the garlic or add nutritional yeast. For store-bought, pair with savory condiments.

Is oil required for cooking?

No, you can sauté veggies using water to keep it oil-free if preferred.

Conclusion

This Vegan Philly Cheesesteak offers all the savory, cheesy, and hearty goodness of the classic sandwich—minus the meat. Whether you go homemade or use shortcuts, the bold flavors, melty vegan cheese, and satisfying texture will make this a repeat favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime comfort food cravings strike.

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